In his tape Living Faith (Random House Audio Books, 1996), President Jimmy
Carter shares that forgiveness is fundamental to his life. He says that without
the knowledge that he can be forgiven, it would be impossible for him to face
his own shortcomings. This even includes forgiveness of himself.
He relates that both he and his wife, Rosalynn, are "strong-willed" persons who
find it difficult to admit being at fault.
One day, after a particularly disturbing argument, Carter decided that he would
never let another day end with each of them angry with the other. So he went out
to his wood shop and cut a thin piece of walnut, a little smaller than a bank
check. On it, he carved the words, "Each evening forever this is good for an
apology or forgiveness, as you desire." That evening, he gave the plaque to
Rosalynn. He reports that, so far, he has been able to honor it each time
Rosalyn has presented it to him.
With his plaque, Carter created a climate of forgiveness between the two of
them. Without the knowledge that we will be forgiven, how quickly will we admit
our own faults? And how can our closest relationships be healthy if we are each
afraid to apologize or unwilling to accept an apology? A climate of forgiveness
is a necessary part of happiness.
From ONE MINUTE CAN CHANGE A LIFE, by Steve Goodier
Thanks to Life Support System Publishing, Inc.
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